LOSS PREVENTION | Fire

Deaths from fires and burns are the fifth most common cause of
unintentional injury deaths in the United States (CDC 2005) and the
third leading cause of fatal home injury (Runyan 2004). The United
States mortality rate from fires ranks fourth among the 25 developed
countries for which statistics are available (USFA 2007).

Although the number of fatalities and injuries caused by residential
fires has declined gradually over the past several decades, many
fire-related deaths remain preventable.

Install Smoke Detectors
Make sure smoke detectors are approved by a recognized laboratory,
install detectors close to all sleeping areas, and consider multiple
detectors in buildings with more than one level. Test each unit
frequently and replace old batteries to ensure that all units are
operational.

Have an Escape Plan
Plan two different exits from all rooms and choose a remote meeting
spot for occupants to gather in the event of a fire. Building
evacuation should be practiced at different times of day to make sure
that all parties are prepared for an emergency exit.

Check Insulation
Have your building's electrical system checked and correct any
deficiencies before installing insulation. Always keep insulation away
from light fixtures and other sources of heat and check to make sure
that your insulation complies with local fire and building codes.

Keep Furnaces Clean
Inspect and clean flues or chimneys on a regular basis to prevent
build-ups. A clog in the airflow from your furnace could cause a fire
or the accumulation of carbon monoxide in your building.

Use Caution with Outlets
Repair any worn or frayed electrical cords and do not overload outlets.
Do not run extension cords under rugs and carpets or looped over nails
or other sharp objects. Use bulbs with wattage at or below the maximum
prescribed by light fixture manufacturers. Allow plenty of air space
around appliances like televisions, microwaves and computers to prevent
overheating.

Be Vigilant with Space Heaters
All space heaters should be kept at least 36 inches from anything
flammable and should never be left on in an empty room or overnight.
Always supervise children and pets when in the presence of an operating
space heater. Most importantly, always read and follow manufacturer's
instructions.

Practice Fire Safety
If you smoke in your home, never do so in bed and always take proper
care when disposing of ashes. Empty ashtrays often to avoid hazardous
build-up of flammable materials and douse before emptying into the
trash. Keep lighters and matches out of reach of small children. In
high-rise buildings, only smoke where permitted.

Cook with Care
Do not install curtains or towel racks close to the stove. Keep the
stove and oven clean from grease and oil. When cooking, wear
form-fitting garments because loose sleeves can catch fire. Keep a fire
extinguisher in the kitchen (2A10BC minimum recommended by many fire
departments). When grilling, never use gasoline and do not add any
lighter fluid once the fire is started. *Attention First-time Parents*
When sterilizing baby bottles/nipples on the stovetop, keep a careful
eye on the pot. If water boils off, the rubber becomes susceptible to
flame and rubber can melt or ignite.

Check Clothes Dryers
Keep dryer in clean and working condition to prevent fires. Always keep
lint trap cleaned and do not exceed contents recommended by
manufacturer. Exhaust hot air safely to the outside of the building.

Storing Combustibles
Store gasoline and other flammable materials in tight metal containers.
Do not use these materials near heat or a pilot. Keep oily, greasy rags
in a sealed, labeled, non-glass container. To avoid spontaneous
combustion, do not store newspapers or other rubbish in a damp, warm or
confined space.

Being informed and well prepared are
the best ways to improve your chances of recovering from disaster.
Advanced Fire & Flood offers a variety of informative presentations and continuing
education seminars tailored to meet your specific educational needs.